R&D Associate Scientist - Analytical Sciences

About the role

As an R&D Associate Scientist - Analytical Sciences, you will generate the analytical insights that support product innovation, quality growth, operational excellence, and sustainability across the Mars Snacking portfolio. Working in a collaborative laboratory environment, you will conduct testing on ingredients, materials, processes, and finished products while partnering with cross-functional teams to solve technical challenges and support business priorities.

This role is ideal for a scientist who is curious, adaptable, and eager to apply analytical and material science expertise to real-world product and ingredient development.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Material Science or related science with 2+ years working experience in a laboratory
• Proactive work behavior, forward thinking and able to make complex decisions that creates and delivers business solutions.
• Experience performing analytical method protocols while working in compliance to quality standards and HSE protocols
• Excellent attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to work in compliance to Good Laboratory Practices and standards
• Project management and good working knowledge of experimental designs

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Material Science or related science
• 3+ years of professional experience in the Analytical or Material Sciences field within the food, beverage, and/or confections industry
• Knowledge and experience in advanced techniques, e.g. material and physical characterization (rheology, particle characterization, XRD, DSC) or imaging (digital/optical microscopy, XRT, SEM)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, problem solving, organizational and time management skills, and customer focus
• Experience with executing operational responsibilities of a laboratory, including purchasing materials, equipment set up/operation/calibration, troubleshooting, training and preventive maintenance protocols, and proper chemicals management
• Familiarity with statistical methods and basic ISO laboratory requirements

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Performs all assigned analyses with minimal supervision upon training completion. Provides accurate and timely data and interpretation of results. Perform basic technical writing for the generation of routine standard operating procedures, test methods and other laboratory or quality protocols with guidance.
• Supports or lead projects with guidance spanning troubleshooting, method development, continuous improvement projects, alignment scope intake in area of expertise, and data science related projects
• Supports capability development including exploring and developing new technologies, method development, and training others in areas of proficiency and expertise
• Adheres to Quality Management Systems (QMS), HSE and Good Lab Practices compliance and supports audits

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus

Pay and benefits

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is between the range listed below, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.

The pay range listed is applicable to IL:USD 67,207.00 - USD 92,410.00